Morocco is the most colorful and westerly country in North Africa. The beauty of the unqiue cities and Atlas Mountains is incomparable. With its mouth-watering cuisine and diverse culture, a Morocco honeymoon is an excellent place for newlyweds to start their new life.
Table of Contents
Is Morocco a Good Place for a Honeymoon?
Morocco is an incredible honeymoon destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. It has a bit of everything, from extensive beaches along the Mediterranean and Atlantic to mountainous regions perfect for hiking and trekking.
And for a unique experience in this North African country, there’s the Sahara desert, the best place for romantic camel rides as you watch sunsets.
What Activities Can You Do on a Honeymoon in Morocco?
Morocco has spectacular scenery, a diverse culture, and mouth-watering cuisine, offering more than you can exhaust in one honeymoon. Nonetheless, here are the best activities to include in your Morocco honeymoon:
- Explore various cities, including the gorgeous blue city (Chefchaouen) for romantic strolls or the medina of Marrakech for its stunning architecture and vibrant markets.
- Take a sunset camel ride in the Sahara desert from Merzouga and enjoy an overnight desert camp.
- Hang out at the beach for water activities and enjoy fresh seafood.
- Go for a relaxing bath in a Moroccan hammam and rejuvenate your body and mind.
- Shop at a Moroccan souk for the best souvenirs.
- Explore the Atlas Mountains for hiking, biking, and stunning views.
- Splurge on an early morning hot air balloon ride and enjoy this gorgeous country from an aerial view.
- Visit notable sites such as Hassan II Mosque, Fes el Bali, Ait ben Haddou, and the ancient Roman city of Volubilis.
What Is the Best Month to Visit Morocco?
The best months to visit Morocco are March to May (spring) and September to October (fall). These months offer the best temperatures to explore the outdoors.
Winter in Morocco (November to February) is usually wet, and summer (June to August) is scorching hot.
Is a Honeymoon in Morocco Expensive?
On average, a 7-day honeymoon stay in Morocco costs between $2,000 to $4,000 per couple. You may spend less or more depending on the accommodation type and activities.
How To Plan a Budget Honeymoon in Morocco
- Sleep in mid-range hotels and Airbnb.
- Engage in free activities such as biking and trekking.
- Plan early and check out honeymoon packages for great deals on hotels and flights.
- Plan with your loved one instead of using a travel agent.
- Eat in the market stalls instead of touristic restaurants.
- Visit public places such as the beaches, medinas, and self-guided tours. Beware and ignore fake/faux guides who may be forceful and persistent.
- Shop from the local markets and bargain prices beforehand.
5 Best Cities to Stay In Morocco
Casablanca
Casablanca is the most popular gateway to Morocco owing to its busy international airport. It’s the largest and most cosmopolitan city, and you’ll meet people from diverse races and cultures. You’ll enjoy the beautiful streets and alleys in its medina, perfect for evening or early morning walks.
Activities include:
- Visit the second largest African mosque (Hassan II Mosque) and admire its magnificent architecture. You can also take a guided tour.
- Stroll through the medina’s (old town) beautiful alleys and admire the Moorish buildings.
- Hang out in the Mohamed V square in the evening and get a sneak peek into the Moroccan lifestyle or enjoy a walk at Arab League Park.
Where to stay: City center, Old Medina Ain Diab
Marrakech
Also spelled Marrakesh, this is one of the best cities for first-timers. Apart from its charm and beauty, It offers the most traditional view into Moroccan life. Everything is colored in this city, from reddish landscapes to pink buildings and colorful markets and squares.
Activities include:
- Walk hand in hand around the beautiful landscapes dotted with palm trees.
- Take a day trip to the desert and explore the sand dunes on a 4×4 ride.
- Go shopping in the colorful souks (markets) and use your bargaining charm for unique souvenirs.
- Explore the squares and interact with locals, or have a picnic in one of the deluxe gardens.
Where to stay: Medina, Kasbah, Kennaria
Rabat
Rabat is Morocco’s capital city and one of the most incredible places to visit. It has numerous green spaces perfect for walks and picnics and magnificent cultural and historical buildings for architecture lovers. Also, you’ll enjoy Moroccan cuisine in the vibrant cafes and restaurants.
Activities include:
- Visit and explore the Kasbah of Udayas for perfect views of the fortress walls.
- Take a tour of the Royal Palace and enjoy the picturesque views.
- Visit the Hassan Tower, the mausoleum of David V, or a trip to the Necropolis of Chellah.
Where to stay: Hassan, Agdal, Medina
Agadir
If magnificent beaches are in your honeymoon plans, Agadir is your best option. The beaches are more extensive than in Essaouira; hence perfect for all your favorite water activities. Agadir is a famous coastal town for locals and tourists due to its beautiful beaches, golf courses, and luxury hotels.
Activities include:
- Spend a day laughing on the golden sand beaches between strolling, swimming, and munching on Moroccan delicacies.
- Visit and shop at the souks and take home the fantastic Moroccan smells, colors, and art.
- Take a day trip to the Souss-Massa National Park and enjoy nature at its best.
- Enjoy a relaxing bath and rejuvenate your skin in a private hammam.
Where to stay: Anza Beach, Marina Agadir, Founty
Fes
Also spelled Fez, this is one of Morocco’s imperial cities and among the world’s largest medieval cities. Despite its modern lifestyle, stepping into this city feels like stepping back in time. It features some of the best medinas, colorful markets, and food stalls.
Activities include:
- Take a day trip to the high Atlas Mountains for biking and trekking.
- Get lost in the medina and shop in the beautiful maze-like souks.
- Visit the blue city, Chefchaouen. It’s about four hours away.
- Visit gorgeous sites such as the Bou Inania Madrasa and the Royal Palace.
Where to stay: Fes El Bali, Nouvelle, Bab Bou Jeloud
What Is the Best Way to Travel to Morocco?
The best way to travel to Morocco is by flight. Casablanca Mohammed V Airport is the country’s most popular and busiest airport. If Casablanca is not your final destination, there are ten other international airports in the country, including Rabat and Marrakesh.
Traveling Within Morocco
Traveling within Morocco includes various options depending on your budget and preferences. The most popular include:
- Petit taxis: Most people use these small vehicles that carry up to three people. They’re cheap and readily available no matter the city.
- Grand taxis: They are the best to move between cities and towns. The only drawback is that they carry up to six people, and you must wait until they’re full.
- Buses: Best for intercity travel over long distances since they’re more comfortable.
- Train: Morocco has a rail network connecting major cities such as Marrakech, Casablanca, Rabat, and Meknes.
- Flights: You can fly within cities to save time. However, domestic flights can be pricey.
- Rental cars: You can also rent a car, but it’s not recommended because local drivers can be aggressive.
What Types of Honeymoon Accommodations Are Available in Morocco?
Morocco has it all when it comes to accommodation types. You’ll experience comfort, luxury, and authenticity with the various accommodation types, including:
- Riads: Riads display Moroccan architecture at its best. They’re private and quiet (usually 4-6 rooms) with the best amenities to relax and unwind.
- Kasbahs: A fortress outside the main town on high ground but with modern amenities. They used to be hideout locations when the towns were under attack.
- Hotels: All types of modern hotels, including villas, luxury hotels, and budget-friendly options.
- Aubergers: They’re more like guest houses or lodges, usually in rural areas.
- Berber houses: Village houses inhabited by Berber families in the Atlas Mountains. They are best for overnight stays when trekking the mountains.
- Permanent desert camps: Tented accommodations that are best for overnight stays when exploring the desert.
3 Local Foods to Try in Morocco
Moroccan cuisine includes foods from diverse cultures culminating in some of the best dishes in North Africa. Here are the top 3 you can try along with Morocco’s national drink: mint tea.
- Tagine: A staple in the country made with tender meat, vegetables, and spices and cooked in a conical clay pot. It’s usually served with bread.
- Harira: A famous soup, especially during Ramadan (best for breaking the fast). It’s made of lamb, tomatoes, chickpeas, lentils, coriander, and lemon juice.
- Couscous: A local favorite, including small semolina balls alongside a bowl of sweet buttermilk and raisins. This meal is usually preserved for special occasions such as weddings.
Are There Any Cultural Experiences to Include in a Moroccan Honeymoon?
Moroccan culture blends African, European, and Middle Eastern cultures birthing beautiful traditions and tastes. Some great experiences include:
- Cooking class: You’ll make a few Moroccan delicacies, and learn how to blend spices for perfect flavors.
- Hamams: Whether you use the upscale or local hammams, it’s an experience like no other. And the bonus: you’ll have soft glowing skin to take home.
- Explore the medinas and ancient cities such as Ait-Ben-Hddou: The best places to learn what life was like before modernization.
What to Pack For a Honeymoon in Morocco
Morocco is casual, and packing depends on the weather and your preferences. However, it’s a Muslim country, and respecting the local culture is recommended. Many visitors prefer to dress modestly—with clothing that covers their shoulders, knees, and midriff.
Is Morocco Safe to Visit?
Morocco is a safe place to visit, but there are high petty crime rates, such as scams and pickpockets. To help you avoid such, here are safety precautions to keep in mind:
- Beware of pickpockets in crowded places such as souks and streets.
- Ensure you hire a licensed tour guide.
- Be prepared for aggressive sellers: stand your ground if you don’t need their merchandise.
- Negotiate upfront when boarding taxis or shopping.
- Lock up your valuables.
- Don’t carry all your cash in one bag.
Do You Need a Visa to Visit Morocco?
You don’t need a visa to visit Morocco for up to 90 days, but you’ll require a valid US passport with at least one blank page.
Bonus Morocco Honeymoon Tips
- ATMs are scarce in smaller towns, and you will need cash.
- The local languages are Arabic, Moroccan Berber, and French. Many people speak English in large cities and tourist areas.
- Haggling in markets is typical and expected. Don’t accept the first price they tell you.
- At the time of writing, 1 USD translates to 10.22 Moroccan Dirham.
- Always ask before taking a local’s photo. Be aware that they may expect a tip.
- Tipping is standard practice (not mandatory) for good services in restaurants and taxis. Round up your bill.
- If you ask someone for directions and they walk you to your destination, they may expect a tip afterward.